Security Testing, Validation, and Measurement Group

Mission Statement

Overview

Federal agencies, industry, and the public rely on cryptography for the protection of information and communications used in electronic commerce, critical infrastructure, and other application areas. When protecting their sensitive data, federal government agencies require a minimum level of assurance that cryptographic products meet their security requirements. Federal agencies are also required to use only tested and validated cryptographic modules. Adequate testing and validation of the cryptographic module and its underlying cryptographic algorithms against established standards is essential to provide security assurance.

The Security Testing, Validation, and Measurement Groupís (STVMG) testing-focused activities include validating cryptographic algorithm implementations, cryptographic modules, and Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP)-compliant products; developing test suites and test methods; providing implementation guidance and technical support to industry forums; and conducting education, training, and outreach programs. All of the STVMG's validation programs work together with independent Cryptographic and Security Testing laboratories that are accredited by the NIST National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP). Based on the independent laboratory test report and test evidence, the Validation Program then validates the implementation under test. The validations awarded to vendor implementations are publicly posted on the NIST website.